Rollercoasters and The Hero's Journey

Freshman year has been a rollercoaster. A bumpy rollercoaster filled with loops and turns. But the funny thing about rollercoasters is that they'll always end and most of the time you come off smiling because you did it. You survived the rollercoaster.

I have learned so much this past year. I am shocked that I even made it. I've met friends that I hope to keep forever. Some have been in my school system for years, and some that have been constantly moving because they are military kids. I love them all so much and I am so glad to share this high school experience with them. 

We learned about this narrative arc in English class called the hero's journey. It starts with a call or desire that the hero has. Then, they cross the threshold, which can be physical or emotional. Then there are the challenges the hero must face. During the challenges, the hero typically meets a mentor or a guide that helps them along their journey. And then there is the abyss which is the greatest challenge. The revelation, or turning point, that the hero comes to face with can happen before, during, or after the abyss. And then the final parts are the atonement which is coming to terms with your new revelation and growing from it and the gift which is what the hero brings back to his/her society.

 

Ever since learning that, I tend to base my journeys on this archetype. I tend to write my blog posts about my atonement because I like talking about my growth. My gift is my writing and love for the world. I have many helpers along the way which are you guys.

I think that everyone goes on journeys. Everyone grows from mistakes and change. That's a big thing I have learned this year. I've grown mentally and emotionally this past year and I am excited (and nervous) for what the future holds.

So yeah, enjoy the rollercoaster. Yeah, you might hate it, but in the end, you will grow. 

Survey Answers

Hi! Here are my answers to the questions that I have asked all of you. If you still want to contribute, go to my post titled, "My survey"
What is your way of coping with others that bother you, are mean to you, etc?
I talk to them about it. Sometimes people are just stressed and need somebody to listen, or didn't even realize they hurt you.
How do you manage stress with school or work?
 Lists! I prioritize, add times, and set alarms for breaks. Sometimes it is effective, other times not.
What are some things that have shaped you to become the person you are today? Bullet, please.

• Toxic friendships
• ACYOA, church, and camp
• Soccer/being injured
• My surroundings/people I surround myself with
• This blog!
• 6th grade (and 8th grade) English teacher(s) 
• High School in general

What are some things that you need to work on?

 I need to work on allowing myself to speak up when something is bothering me and allowing myself to feel emotions. Like I always feel like I can't get upset over things because other people are also hurt. Also, I want to go outside more and be more mindful!

What motivates you?

 Hmm... my craving to succeed in life and its challenges. Also, my sisters and close friends and family who want me to succeed.
What is your star/zodiac sign? Do you believe in them?
I am a Virgo. I do believe in aspects of it and enjoy the fact that I am apart of a bigger community with similar characteristics. I don't believe that certain couples are "better" or "more compatible" than others because your birthday should not have anything to do with that.
What is your biggest fear?
Not being wanted or remembered.
What is your biggest accomplishment?
Hmm...I think my biggest accomplishment is being proud of who I am and loving myself.
What is a dream you have for the future?
I want to have a family and make people feel loved.
Who inspires you and why?
There is a lot :) My dad, my mom, my Auntie Lily, my friends, my sisters, my coaches, etc. All of you guys inspire me to share my feelings because you all seem to care.
What is something that has been hard for you to accept?
It has been hard for me to accept the fact that there are people in the world that don't want to change and want to bring me down.